Food trends can come and go, leaving behind nostalgic memories of dishes that were once popular but have since disappeared from restaurants. Over 500 older adults in the BuzzFeed Community shared their memories of forgotten dishes they grew up eating, sparking a wave of reminiscence. Some of the dishes mentioned include crab cakes, root beer floats, egg creams, Waldorf salad, Denver sandwiches, Chicken Kiev, Chicken Marbella, pu pu platters, steak tartare, and Caesar salad made at the table.
The mention of root beer floats, egg creams, and black and white sundaes brought back memories of simpler times for many respondents. Additionally, dishes like Denver sandwiches and Chicken Kiev were favorites of some, but have become increasingly rare to find on menus. The unique and diverse flavors of Chicken Marbella, which has been described as delicious and deserving of a comeback, resonated with participants who recalled enjoying the dish in the past.
Chinese restaurants offering pu pu platters with a variety of dishes to cook at the table, delicious garnishes of parsley, and classic appetizers like shrimp cocktail were also fondly remembered. The disappearance of popular dishes like pasta primavera, potato wedges with sour cream and sweet chili sauce, blooming onions, and tableside guacamole surprised and disappointed some respondents who miss these flavors that were once so common.
Trends like incorporating pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and roasted red peppers in dishes were pervasive in the ’90s and ’00s. While some are relieved that these ingredients have faded from menus due to personal aversions, others wonder about their sudden decline in popularity. Classic dishes like Chicken Cordon Bleu, escargot prepared in garlic butter, and chicken fried steak were also noted as becoming increasingly rare, much to the disappointment of those who fondly remembered consuming these items in the past.
The memories shared by respondents highlight the cyclical nature of food trends and the impact of cultural shifts on the availability of popular dishes. The disappearance of certain items from menus has left a void for those who enjoyed the unique flavors and experiences they offered. As tastes and preferences continue to evolve, there is a sense of longing for the return of these forgotten dishes that hold a special place in the hearts of those who grew up enjoying them. Despite changes in the culinary landscape, the nostalgia for these dishes remains strong among older adults who yearn for a taste of the past.
In conclusion, the reminiscences of forgotten dishes shared by older adults in the BuzzFeed Community shed light on the transient nature of food trends and the impact of cultural shifts on culinary offerings. Nostalgia for dishes like crab cakes, Chicken Kiev, pu pu platters, and tableside guacamole reflects a longing for the flavors and experiences of the past. While some may be relieved by the disappearance of certain ingredients or dishes due to personal preferences, others lament the loss of classic and beloved menu items. The memories shared by respondents serve as a testament to the enduring power of food to evoke emotions and memories of a bygone era.
